Analysis: It’s like selling Disneyland – but buying Manchester United is the definition of a high-risk investment

Despite the unique global brand position, the risks overshadow the opportunities for a new Manchester United owner. Obviously, it all depends on the asking price, but anything less than a premium price would be a big surprise.
Many fans and experts have been wrong on several counts regarding the Glazers’ ownership, but what stands out is the massive misunderstanding that the Americans never invested properly in the team.
Why it matters: It is probably going to be the biggest takeover in football history and there won’t be a shortage of interested buyers. But how many can meet the premium set by the Glazers when all risks have been highlighted in the due-diligence process?
The perspective: The future growth prospects in the Premier League and global football probably won’t be enough to justify a £7 billion takeover. Therefore the new owner could be someone who is buying more than just a high-profile football club.

“This is like selling Disneyland. Everybody knows them. Everybody wants to do all they can to be part of the bidding process even though they know that they won’t make it until the very end.”

These were the words of a high-profile M&A adviser who’s been working as an adviser to owners, chairmen, chief executives and sporting directors in the football world for quite a few years.

“This is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Manchester United are arguably one of t

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